The Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of Virginia (UVA) invites applications for a postdoctoral Research Associate position focused on modeling marine population dynamics and larval connectivity. The position is part of an NSF CAREER award project investigating oyster larval dispersal and metapopulation dynamics among restored and natural reefs in coastal Virginia. The postdoctoral research associate will work under the supervision of lead-PI Max Castorani (UVA) and in collaboration with co-investigators Patricia Wiberg (UVA), Will White (Oregon State University), and Rachel Smith (University of California, Santa Barbara).
With mentorship and training from this interdisciplinary team of researchers, the research associate will:
- Develop oceanographic simulations and data-model comparisons to estimate and validate demographic connectivity among oyster populations.
- Use mathematical models to assess the effects of connectivity on oyster population growth and stability.
- Predict the impact of reef restoration scenarios and climate change on oyster population dynamics.
- Prepare and submit manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
- Present research findings at scientific conferences, workshops for restoration practitioners, and public outreach events.
- Assist in mentoring graduate students engaged in related research.
The postdoctoral research associate will join a collaborative team of PIs, postdocs, and students at UVA working at the NSF-funded Virginia Coast Reserve Long Term Ecological Research site (VCR LTER). The position is based at UVA in Charlottesville, Virginia. There is substantial technical support for data analysis and management.
